Cardboard Cycad

Zamia furfuracea

The Zamia furfuracea, commonly known as the Cardboard Cycad, is a unique and attractive plant that brings a touch of tropical charm to any garden or landscape. Known for its thick, leathery leaves and compact form, this evergreen cycad is both distinctive and low-maintenance.

Evergreen or Deciduous: Evergreen
Mature Height (metres): Typically grows to about 0.6-1 metre.
Mature Width (metres): Approximately 1-1.5 metres.
Spacing: Plant at least 1 metre apart from other trees or structures to ensure adequate space for growth and air circulation.
Foliage: Features thick, leathery, and slightly fuzzy fronds with a bright green hue, providing a unique and tactile visual appeal.
Flowering Period: Does not produce traditional flowers. Instead, it forms large, cone-like structures typical of cycads.
Fruit: Produces ornamental cones that contain seeds, adding seasonal interest and unique texture to the plant.
Form/Habit: Exhibits a low-growing, symmetrical, and rounded growth habit, making it an excellent choice for ground cover and ornamental purposes.
Uses: Ideal for use as a specimen plant in tropical and subtropical gardens, as well as in rockeries and container gardens. Its unique texture and form make it a favourite for adding visual interest to garden beds and borders.
Sun: Thrives in full sun to partial shade, performing well under various light conditions.
Maintenance: Low maintenance; requires minimal pruning, typically only to remove old or damaged fronds. It is highly resilient to pests and diseases.
Water Requirement: Moderate; drought-tolerant once established, but benefits from regular watering during prolonged dry periods to maintain its lush appearance.

The Zamia furfuracea is a delightful addition to any garden, offering unique foliage, easy care, and the ability to thrive in a variety of conditions, making it a versatile and attractive choice for gardeners.